(RNN) – It’s hot out, and experts are asking pet owners to err on the side of caution to prevent serious injury or death.
To prevent pets from overheating during summer’s long and hot days, ASPCA experts have provided simple precautions to follow.
Never leave your animals alone in a parked vehicle.
ASPCA president and CEO, Matt Bershadker, says that every year an alarming number of pets either die or are injured after being left in a hot car.
They say that despite outside temperatures, the inside of your vehicle can be 20 degrees hotter.
“Even when a car’s windows are cracked open or it’s parked in the shade, the interior temperature can increase dramatically in a short time,” said Dr. Lori Bierbrier, an ASPCA medical director.
On an 85-degree day it only takes 10 minutes for the inside of a car to reach 102 degrees.
And some animals are particularly susceptible to overheating, such as those that are overweight, have thick or dark colored coats and elderly animals.
8 ways to keep your pet safe this summer, with tips from @ASPCA experts! Read more: https://t.co/PcJR5FK0hE via @petinsider_ pic.twitter.com/qBU60HkEGP
— ASPCA (@ASPCA) June 14, 2018
Pet owners should start the season by visiting the vet for a checkup.
Make sure your pets get tested for heartworm if they aren’t on year-round preventative medication.
Symptoms of overheating in pets, include; excessive panting or difficulty breathing, increased heart and respiratory rate, drooling, mild weakness, stupor or even collapse.
Experts say pet owners should look out for these signs.
Animals with flat faces, like Pugs and Persian cats, are more susceptible to heat stroke since they cannot pant as effectively.
Experts say its okay to trim long thick hair, but never shave your pet since it’s coat protects them from overheating and sunburn.
The shade is not enough.
Experts say that finding resolve in the shade during outdoor activities will offer little protection on hot summer days.
According to the ASPCA, owners should give pets plenty of fresh, clean water when it’s hot or humid outdoors, since pets can get dehydrated quickly.
Be mindful of hot concrete. Being so close to the ground, an animals body can heat up quickly, and sensitive paw pads can burn.,experts say.
As an ultimate precaution, experts recommend keeping pets indoors when it’s extremely hot.
If you see an animal trapped in a hot car, experts say you should try to locate the pet’s owner or call 911 and to remain near the vehicle until help arrives.
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